Croatia striker Mario Mandzukic, who scored the winning goal against England in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, has decided to retire, his last international appearance.
On Friday night, the 35-year-old announced the decision on Instagram, along with a photo of a pair of boots.
"When you put on these shoes for the first time, you can't even imagine what you'll experience in football," he wrote in an English email to his younger self, "Dear Little Mario," signed "Your Big Mario."
"You'll feel like you're nearing retirement, put those boots in the cupboard and you won't regret it."
Mandzukic made 89 appearances for Croatia, scoring 33 goals. He also played for Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid and Juventus, making 11 appearances for AC Milan this year. Due to injuries, he spent most of his time as a substitute and did not score goals.
He has won 3 Croatian league titles in Dinamo Zagreb, 2 Bundesliga titles at Bayern and 4 Serie A titles at Juventus.
He wrote: "You're going to score goals on the biggest stage and win the biggest trophies in the jerseys of big clubs."
"Wearing the proudest Croatian national team uniform, you will write down some of the most important moments in Croatian sport."
Juventus responded quickly. The club posted on Instagram: "It's a pleasure to share some of your stories together."
His former teammates at Juventus, Pjanic and Matuidi, Croatian tennis player Cilic and NBA small forward Bojan Bogdanovic all joined the online chant.
"Thank you, such a warrior!!" Another former Juventus teammate Patrice Evra wrote.
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic thanked Mandzukic in a statement, saying he was "a warrior that the team can always trust, a player who can handle major games and the toughest challenges." ”
Born in Slavoski Brod, Mandzukic began his career in 2004 at his hometown club Masonia. In 2007, he signed his first major contract with Dinamo Zagreb.
He then played for Wolfsburg (2010-2012), Bayern Munich (2012-2014), Atletico Madrid (2014-2015) and Juventus (2015-2019).
Finally, he recalled his dramatic victory in the World Cup semi-finals.
"Also, if you happen to play against England at the World Cup, be ready around the 109th minute," he wrote, with a smile on his face.
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